Hosta Diseases Explained: HVX, Tobacco Rattle Virus, Nematodes & Testing with Brett Arenz

Worried your hosta might be sick? Wondering if those strange streaks, spots, or browning leaves are Hosta Virus X (HVX), tobacco rattle virus, nematodes, or something else? This episode is for every hosta gardener. This week on Hosta La Vista, Betsy and Mandy are joined by Brett Arenz, Director of the Plant Disease Clinic at the University of Minnesota, to talk all things hosta disease, hosta viruses, and plant diagnostics. We cover: Hosta Virus X (HVX) symptoms, diagnosis, and how to recognize suspicious patterns in hosta leaves How to test for HVX and when you should test a plant Tobacco Rattle Virus (TRV) and how it differs from HVX Foliar nematodes in hostas — what damage looks like and how to spot the signs Impatiens Necrotic Spot Virus (INSV) and other diseases affecting hostas Common issues that can look like hosta disease including environmental stress, frost damage, herbicide injury, and nutrient problems How to send hosta samples for plant disease testing Why gardeners should contact their local Extension office or land-grant university for in-state plant diagnostic testing Brett shares practical, science-based advice for diagnosing sick hostas, understanding plant pathogens, and protecting your shade garden from disease. Want to test your hostas at home? Order Agdia plant testing kits here: Agdia Testing Kits Follow Hosta La Vista on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode about hostas, shade gardening, and the people who love them.